Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church

In the town of Saint-Pierre, facing the sea, lies Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church (Our Lady of the Assumption), a historical monument from the 17th century. Rent a car and go visit this landmark.

Martinique counts a few catholic historical landmarks : Notre-Dame de la Délivrande church in Morne-Rouge, the Sacré-coeur of Balata and also Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church. Located in the town of Saint-Pierre (in the north), the latest is one of the most important churches on the island and stands out with its fascinating history. Indeed, historical records show that its foundations date back to 1654, when a simple chapel was built by the French settlers in the Mouillage area.

However, the chapel was destroyed in 1667 by English cannons during a naval battle opposing France and England. Almost two decades later, the settlers started building a neoclassical style church in the same place. The church’s architecture is remarkable for that period and the building also has a distinctive white marble high altar.

Unfortunately, the Mount-Pelée eruption of 1902 greatly almost completely destroyed the church. Only the floor, part of a wall, one bell and the famous high altar survived. It is only in 1923 that Saint-Pierre slowely starts reconstructing. Based on the remaining floor, church yard and the few parts that survived the disaster, the building of the new Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church was finally completed in 1956. The church is now a listed building in French historical monuments. It is open daily to the public and entrance is free of charge.

A little advice from Jumbo Car Martinique : rent a city car to go to Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church in Saint-Pierre.

Practical information

Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church is a beautiful historical monument located in the town of Saint-Pierre. To go visit this unique building and learn more about its fascinating history, consider renting a car.